Dharmali Patel has a way with Friendships
![](https://ci-cdn.childrensillustrators.com/images/news/dTaVoY0e7CWMi8tEohUEjtbnVVRLivPWRlDWZi9q700x701.jpg)
Illustrator Dharmali Patel has a way of showing friendships in her illustrations. This featured image, which made her Illustrator of the Week, is about two friends with a unique and special bond despite their many differences.
![Dharmali Patel has a way with Friendships](https://ci-cdn.childrensillustrators.com/images/news-related/1IH9yHXyldf3CK3B3R8d7VrVtPKhhbg0HC87Z7tH700x714.jpg)
In this book, Tin Cans and String, by Virve Aljas-Switzer, Priya and Jay share stories every night using tin cans and string hung between their windows. Priya is devastated by the news that Jay and his family are moving far away. Using her resourcefulness, some unraveled sweaters, and a few thousand knots, Priya learns that a little distance can't keep close friends apart.
![Dharmali Patel has a way with Friendships](https://ci-cdn.childrensillustrators.com/images/news-related/9JckTrPBUV6RRKv5BtIkkPbMKeuHlecWw2UkTC8x900x899.jpg)
In Mahtab Narsimhan's book The Boy and the Banyan Tree, Dharmali illustrated the beautiful relationship between a boy and a loving, caring Banyan Tree. The story is about gratitude and giving back and is filled with teachable moments for us all.
![Dharmali Patel has a way with Friendships](https://ci-cdn.childrensillustrators.com/images/news-related/oBenKpboSuO08Yuxm17diSs1zlKMq9Ia8OrmMmmH900x675.jpg)
Author Caroline Fernandez has created a series of stories about friends Asha and Baz who time travel to meet influential and important female historical figures, such as Hedy Lamarr, Katia Kraft, Mary Sherman Morgan, and more. Their bond is strong and grows as the series moves from book to book.
![Dharmali Patel has a way with Friendships](https://ci-cdn.childrensillustrators.com/images/news-related/SBTgovxlwyBSgvskojc1KJY8YkeGf3oV5ivmZhQd900x476.jpg)
Illustration Online represents Dharmali Patel.